The Sundogs to play Tom Petty tribute concert

Local rock ‘n’ roll band The Sundogs are set to play their 12th annual Tom Petty Show on Saturday, Feb. 1 at Little Five Points’ Variety Playhouse, with benefits going toward ALS research.

The Sundogs will cover songs by the legendary American guitarist, singer and songwriter Tom Petty. The band has been together since 2001 and includes members Lee and Will Haraway, Jon Harris and Kevin Thomas.

This marks the second consecutive year that the show will benefit Hop On A Cure, a non-profit organization dedicated to funding ALS research. 

“Our Uncle John Wellons passed from ALS when we were in college, and we will always remember the grace and courage he showed until the very last moment of his life,” said The Sundogs singer and guitarist, Will Haraway in a press release.

According to the release, Gainesville native John Driskell Hopkins, also known for winning multiple Grammy Awards as a member and songwriter for the Zac Brown Band, founded the organization alongside his wife Jennifer after his own ALS diagnosis in 2021. The Hopkinses decided to use their public platform as an opportunity to spread awareness of the disease and raise funds for further research into prevention, treatment and possible cures. 

“Hop has been a friend and inspiration to us throughout his career, and his attitude and positivity definitely reminds us of that time,” said Will Haraway in the release when talking about Hopkins. “It’s our honor and pleasure to help support Hop On A Cure and the ALS cause.”

This year’s Tom Petty Show will feature guest appearances from a number of other renowned musicians. Those include vocalist Mike Mattison of the Tedeschi Trucks Band, singer-songwriter David Ryan Harris, guitarist Dave Yoke, and local Atlanta legends Bradley Cole Smith and Mike Rizzi.

Tickets for this event are available online.